Classic Rock Discussion thread, including Catfish's Top 20 Lists.

[sneakypete]

@sneakypete

https://www.gopbriefingroom.com/index.php/board,96.0.html

@catfish1957

Thank you!

Couldn't find it to save my life. Damn chemo brain is driving me nuts. Today I can't spell,and have to double check everything before I post it.

IF I remember to check it at all,of course.

[sneakypete]

It was always a little amazing to me that these icons could put ego aside and make music. But, even though I'm not a musician, the ones I know put making music above all. I figure there had to be a lot of security in themselves and admiration for the others involved. Like @Gefn I love End Of The Line. It makes me bob my head in time with the music, lol. Your analogy with the c/w outlaws is spot on.

As a kid, I had no use for Roy Orbison.

@berdie

I honestly didn't think that was even possible. NOT trying to make a joke or slam on you,but I was in awe of his voice since the very first word I heard him sing. Roy really and truly was "One of a kind".

But as an adult...boy did I have to walk that back!!!  He is the binding member of the Wilburys. His voice soaring above the others is pretty darn impressive.

Oh,yeah!

[catfish1957]

Been on an extended hiatus out west visiting kids/grandkids.   Had a blast shocking the Californian minions with Texas thinking and antics.

Good example, is there is absolute stereotypic kind of California woman in a tight running suit about aged 45 trying to look 18, jogging in shopping centers, with her pony tail flopping side by side like Malibu Barbie.   One morning, I pulled up to one in my big truck, and asked her if she knew the directions to the restaurant ..   "Chubby's".  Her reaction was priceless.   

Now that things are returning to normal, I hope to resume these reviews.

[Kamaji]

Been on an extended hiatus out west visiting kids/grandkids.   Had a blast shocking the Californian minions with Texas thinking and antics.

Good example, is there is absolute stereotypic kind of California woman in a tight running suit about aged 45 trying to look 18, jogging in shopping centers, with her pony tail flopping side by side like Malibu Barbie.   One morning, I pulled up to one in my big truck, and asked her if she knew the directions to the restaurant ..   "Chubby's".  Her reaction was priceless.   

Now that things are returning to normal, I hope to resume these reviews.

Did she know the directions, tho'?

[catfish1957]

Did she know the directions, tho'?

After the utter shock in her face, an equally animant GTH look followed.  Was worth price of admission tho.

[catfish1957]

Classic Rock Album of the Day-  AC DC- For Those About to Rock- (1981). *** 1/2

This album was and has been very mis-characterized in the history of rock and roll.  Depsite all the fan criticism, this still was the first No. 1 in U.S. LP for AC DC.  The same have lamented that this album rode purely the wave of their life time masterpiece Back In Black.  I will not argue that point, but I also counter that this disk is not only great, but maybe only acouple of  tads less great than BIB.   What I especially like is singer Brian Johnson gave more of his own signature sound than semi-mimicking Bon Scott in Black In Black.

Musically, AC DC are among the kings of hard rock hooks, and 4/4 time bombastic 3 or 4 chord party rock and roll.  And this particular album does not deviate from the formula.  This is  strongly consistent and banging album that has been wrongly dissed for reasons I mentioned earlier.  I also give bonus points for being one of my favorite album covers of all time too.   Cannons are bad ass.  No if or buts.

It should be noted that this was the last album the band had produced with Mutt Lange.  Which is a shame, as the late '70's and early '80's in my eyes are the ultimate hay days of this band.   The absolutely made really good albums afterwards, but never with the consistency of this time frame.    From the sound perspective, Angus Young's solos are particularly crisp just like BIB.  As with all the ACDC stuff, it is full of fun and innuendo. Very little of any filler. 

Fun Fact- Even though AC DC are almost universally accepted as the unoffical national band of Australia, this LP only topped off at No. 3.  I found that fact pretty odd.

Side 1-

For Those About to Rock-  Fabulous title track-  Head banging stuff that features the bad ass climaxes into  cannon fire.  This is a band that's sound hits you like a 12 pound cannon ball between eyes. Song's end soloing is vintage Angus Young. 2

Put the Finger on You- Standard riffs on a stones-ish type of number.  Good song, but lower tier on this LP - 8

Let's Get it Up- My personal favorite on the LP,  At least it took three songs to get into heavy innuendo.  The ax/"on 4" drum/cymbal crash mix is unique to to AC DC, but the sudued feel on this works so very well. 1

Inject the Venom-  Musically stylistically more like their mid 70's stuff.  Meter minus vocal almosts sounds early Purple work-  6

Snowballed- Johnson's best wailing and a established singing style that was his hallmark for the band for decades- 5

Side 2-
--------------

Evil Walks-  Mix of Hell's Bells and Noise Pollution with more stones like boogie stuff. Nothing innovative or new.  Not this is rehash, but...    - 9

C.O.D- Standard fare from the band, that almost has an infused blues feel to it.  7

Breaking the Rules-  Nothing new - 10

Night of Long Knifes- Great chordal early push, with some unique sounds.  Works very well, and the song does somewhat of an Aersosmith feel to it. 3

Spellbound-  Strong closing, Very solid album .  Yeah not Back in Black.....   But these are 40 minutes where you sure got your money's worth.  Future AC DC albums would normally only contain one or two good tracks.  This album ended an era and streak of about 4 albums that pretty much rocked cover to cover. 4 




http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PbzsMt-uvrc

[catfish1957]

Classic Rock Album of the Day- Queen - Queen II (1974) ****

When I previously reviewed the first Queen album it was a tough call as both I and II are absolute classics.  No one can doubt their talent, range, and influence, and though they became much bigger stars in the late 1970's and '80's, to me this is their talent in pure hard rock essence.  Not understating their greatness as pop rock stars, this just my preferential era. 

I originally chose I, by the sheer manner these guys were so innovative, new, and unlike anything previously.  Yes you can detect and extract the glam influences, but they took a hard rock edge and made music like no one else.  And it didn't hurt the fact that these are a group of extremely talented musicans, and songwriters.  There isn't a weak link in this band. And Mercury?  I feel he has maybe the greatest voices in rock history.  Incredible range and power.   I am just a little saddened they didn't stay the course with style, and intent.  But they sure knew where the cash was.

What addtionally makes these first 2 albums so great is that it allowed Brian May to exercise his hard rocking soloist chops.  By the time Sheer Heart Attack and Night at the Opera were published, the style had definitely morphed in a more pop direction. Smart in that it broadened their appeal, but was not good for their base fans who brought them into the limelight.

This one also along with Opera has maybe the most prog feel to it.  Band even chose to call the sides black/white instead of 1/2.  The white side has a very traditional majestic chordal fell, with what is almost pomp in intent, while the black side more heavy, riffing, and forbodance. Mercury claims there was no special meaning, but at least my POV, there are definite stylistic differences.  But sides are equally listenable, as this album has very little filler.

Fun Fact:  Across the board this LP is considered the most critically panned in the band's career.  Of course, I have always had a pretty dim opinion of rock critics, who typically are don't know shit from shinola. 

Side White
-----------------

Procession- Beaurtiful majestic instrumental that does a fine job intro-ing the rest of the album.  7

Father to Son- Anthem that shifts styles and meter.  Metal riffing mid way is classic.  4

White Queen- Another ballad that doesn't meet the strength of preceding song.  Who said they had to bat a 1.000 9

Some Day One Day- Finely sung by Brian May.  May has a great voice, but when you are in the same band as Freddie Mercury?  Tune has that AOR '70's feel, but fits in nicely in the scheme of the LP  6

The Loser in the End- Roger Taylor's add to the album.  Weakest cut on the LP.  11

Side Black
-----------------

Ogre Battle-  Classic Classic Hard rocking Queen.  This song has my favorite Brian May Ax work.  Anyone who doubts his abilities needs to invest 5 mnutes and listen to this amazing work.   Always wondered if Peart got his inspiration for Bytor and Snow Dog from this.  I'd wager he had.  Great story telling while a tour de' blast of a wall of instruments.  Excellent. 1

The Fairy Feller's Master Stroke-  Pop singed, but the master stroke was some of the innovative hooks that almost make this tongue in cheek ditty really fit in nicely with the Aesop fable-ish concept. 8

Nevermore- We all know, I am not a fan of crooning balladry, but this is the first song, that Queen showcased Mercury's operatic talents and range. Also not lost in the equation, is introduction of some the best and subsequent harmonization in rock history. 5

March of the Black Queen-  An absolute masterpiece.  Maybe the last song to feature and unfortunately include the "N" word by a white band?  In any case this benchmark of absolute blending of all the band's talents.  Song features some very innovative time and key changes that really especially gives this one that prog feel. 2

Funny How Love is-  Queen's greatest ballad, and pretty much has died in obscurity due to fan's infamilarity with their early catalog. The histronic harmonies just give this song a special feel. 3

Seven Seas of Rye-  Somewhat of a followup of the fitrst album.  Never really understood what it added.  Maybe a superfan of the band could enlighten me. 10


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rhOTV0EeAps

[sneakypete]

I can't remember ever hearing a song  by them I didn't like,and they really took off once Freddy Mercury started doing the vocals. Besides having an amazing voice,he also had an amazing stage presence.

[catfish1957]

I can't remember ever hearing a song  by them I didn't like,and they really took off once Freddy Mercury started doing the vocals. Besides having an amazing voice,he also had an amazing stage presence.

Queen had a flawless savy on knowing how to channel their talent into star-dom.  You are right that Mercury did have a 1st percentile stage prescence and a flawless voice to match.  So much so that the supporting players of May, Deacon, and Taylor were overshadowed even with their absolute mind blowing individual  talents.

Freddie Mercury with that massive appeal also and unfortunanely gave him a bigger voice in band direction, and so very gradually the band moved from a rocking to pop direction.  For some that may be preferred, but as more of a rock purist, it wasn't welcome. I actually quit  buying their LP's after Night at the Opera.

[catfish1957]

Classic Rock Album of the Day- Fleetwood Mac- Tusk (1979). ****

As Epic of a hit that Rumours became in 1979, yours truly will not dispute that fact, but even with the ubiqitous nature of that LP in the halls of modern classic rock universe. I recognize that the experimental basis of this work in nothing short of brilliant. No doubt this is Lndsey Buckingham's brain child, and it just seals the deal that Buckingham is criminally underated in rock history as far as song writing and guitar prowess.  The Fleetwood Mac purist mostly hated the Buckingham - Nicks America-phile addition, and Tusk just rubbed in their face that their bluesy band had been fully hijacked.  Not only, but this was a double album that seemed to exaberate the fact.

I love the fact that Rumours was so huge (at last count 40M copies) that Buckingham embarked on somewhat of a FU album, and flexed his creative forces in a manner never seen.  Yes, the fan base was shocked, but many of us saw what was a soul beared in an intense manner, and one that was so stylistically varied, dark, forboding, and even upbeat in a collection of what was self reflective dittys that channeled the internal band anger into a classic. 

I especially love the Nicks contributions, as she takes what I feel is the sexist female voice of all time, and creates magic.  Buckingham contibutes much more intense ax work too, that has much less hook, and more substance and character.  Yes, this was a commercial failure, but at least in my eyes this is their Swanson, and epic music contribution.  Personally, the experimentive value of this work help propel Nicks in her solo career.   As she was able to flex the range versus just singing the hits. 

Fun Fact:  Not sure this stat has been created, but I seriously doubt any band in rock history has seen a 90% drop off in sales after one hit album  Rumours- 40M units Tusk- 4M sold.

Recommended Cuts- "*"  i.e didn't feel like ranking 20 songs this time.

Side 1-
-----------

Over and Over-  LP starts with a soft Chris McVie number.  Not saying CM was off her game,  but outise some soulful Buckingham licks,  not a upper tier cut on the LP

The Ledge- Experimental ditty No.1- Folksy one with an innovative fuzzy guitar sound that almost across as it was muffled in a barrel.

Think About Me- Another CM/Buckingham sung number that was one of the few semi-hits of the work.  Very simple in Fleetwood Mac terms, but effective *

Save Me a Place- Ditty No. 2 Meh....

Sara-  The biggest hit (Charted No. 7). And very hauntingly, beautiful and sexily sang song by Ms. Nicks.  Fabulous production, and the song that probably and finally told Stevie Nicks that she had a lucrative solo career out there for the taking. *

Side 2-
------------

What Makes You Think You Are the One- Another folksy experimentive .  Love the driving percussion while the guitar chordal progression takes place.  I am sure the record producers thought they were punked with this kind of work, but I recognize the simplistic genius.  Buckingham has bared his soul, and it works nicely.  *

Storms- Another beautiful and soulful expressive performance from Nicks. I feel there was so much hurtful truth between Nicks and Buckingham as so much of this music channeled and documented their tumultuous  relationship.  You can hear it and feel it here. *

That's All For Everyone- One of my favorite songs on the entire album.  Song's slow rolling build with such interesting harmonic adds, just give this that surrealistic feel of each voice talking in tandem.  "that's all?"  That sure is the feel, and I thought based on a lot of these lyrics was a harbringer of their end.  *

It's Not That Funny-  Absloute innovation by Buckigham.  Takes almost a folk like melody line, and makes music like none had made before.  Fantastic guitar interplay. *

Sisters of the Moon- Another strong Nicks contribution, and one that sounds a lot like she would be doing in her solo career.  Some searing Buckingham solo work added at the end, excellent stuff.  *

Side 3-
-----------

Angel- Though this was released as a single, strangely it did not chart.  And in my opinion this is the sexist sang song, by maybe the sexiest rock star who ever lived.  Yeah....   Many other guys had Farah Fawcett Major on the Wall at the dorm.  Me?  Mine was a hot and sweaty Stevie Nicks. *

That's Enough For Me- Quicker paced, but more of the same

Brown Eyes- Not too much filler here , but this CM number adds little to the equation.

Never Make Me Cry- Christine turns the tables on the very next song, by making maybe one of the most sorrowful heart wrenching tunes ever.  Man, there really must have been some serious emotional angst during the songwriting aspects of this LP.  *

I Know I am Not Wrong- "Don't Blame Me" is a repetitive theme and lyric on this album.  Song encapuslates tone, tenor and musical feel of the entire album.  One of my favorites on the LP. *

Side 4-
------------

Honey Hi- Another homer by Chris McVie. Hard to beleive that a song so simple, and elemental could come across so nicely. *

Beautiful Child-  Nick's meloncoly add.  Not bad, not her best effort on the LP.

Walk a Thin Line- Very nice harmonized total group effort .  Buckingham using these slow rolling folk like songs was well hallmarked by this one as an example .*

Tusk- I kind of dug this one since I was a member of a university marching band almost in that same era. Otherwise this pretty much was a gimmick song.  In the grand scheme of time, pretty pointless.

Never Forget- One hour plus album closes with a positive and pleasant note.   No, and at  least from my POV, I will never forget how good and overlooked this album is in rock history.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3gnGhTCLqs

 

[berdie]

JMHO...Tusk was as good as Rumors. Maybe not as commercially successful.

Glad to see you back @catfish1957 . I love your reviews.

[catfish1957]

JMHO...Tusk was as good as Rumors. Maybe not as commercially successful.

Glad to see you back @catfish1957 . I love your reviews.

Thanks for the kind words @berdie.   If there are any particular bands or albums you'd like to see a review, let me know.

[deb]

Thanks for the kind words @berdie.   If there are any particular bands or albums you'd like to see a review, let me know.

I’m not Berdie  , but could you do a review of “Edgar Winter’s White Trash” album?

[catfish1957]

I’m not Berdie  , but could you do a review of “Edgar Winter’s White Trash” album?

@deb

Love to.  And there is only one LP that will fit that bill.  "They Only Come Out At Night" when they were the Edgar Winter Group is an excellent choice.  Fine album, that I have had on the radar for a while, but never got around to doing.  His collaboration with Derringer was a winner, and this particular album has their 2 most well known songs.

[deb]

@deb

Love to.  And there is only one LP that will fit that bill.  "They Only Come Out At Night" when they were the Edgar Winter Group is an excellent choice.  Fine album, that I have had on the radar for a while, but never got around to doing.  His collaboration with Derringer was a winner, and this particular album has their 2 most well known songs.

That’s a great album. I look forward to your review.
If you ever get a chance to listen to White Trash, I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised. It was my introduction to Edgar and it has remained one of my favorites since the early 70’s.

[catfish1957]

Classic Rock Album of the Day- Edgar Winter Group- They Only Come Out at Night- (1972) ***

I kind of have a personal connection to today's choice as the Winter Brothers hail from my neck of the woods in SE Texas, nearby where Janis Joplin also hailed.  The Winter Brothers were blues stalwarts from the area and this is a very extreme example of a crossover where EW strayed from the formula but gathered at least short term huge success, thanks a lot to a lot of side talent that gave this album a very mainstream feel.  Think about it.  This moment rock history included Winter, Rick Derringer, Ronnie Montrose, and the Eagles producer Bill Szymczyk  who pulled magic out of thin air. 

In this moment of the early 1970's mostly prog acts were hitting the tracks with strong keyboard focused music.  EW saw a niche and put together a string of nicely focused hooked tunes, and technology that lit up the Billboard charts.  Out of the blue and unexpectedly, this LP charted up to No.3 in the charts in early 1973.  All during a time when some of the best rock and roll in history was being unleashed.   These guys were competing with the likes of Led Zeppelin, the Stones, and Eagles among others.

With that said, you can see a lot of bluesy undertones where Winter didn't totally turn his back on his family legacy. But what I find so interesting sometimes is when you see a collaboration of so many genres  Glam from Derringer, Blues from Winter, Hard Rock from Montrose, and produced by the leading country rock guy in business.  North that this album was perfect.  It still means had a  few filler links in the LP, but make no doubt about it, with the two huge hits this album generated, it was destined for greatness.  Then also add the fact that some of the first tastes of mainstream synth was added?  Has this album been sadly forgotten more than deserved?  You bet, and the fact you hardly hear EW music on Classic Rock radio seems kind of odd.

Fun Fact: Only Platinum album of 6 studio albums during's EW's career.

Side 1-
----------

Hanging Around- Blues tinged and nice solid effort that comes across style wise like a lot of James Gang/Walsh stuff.nIn any case, listener knows this isn't standard blues in the works. 5

When It Comes Around-   Band switches gears and puts out a Stones like tune that would make Keith/Mick proud.  Got that Street Fighting Man vibe to it that works pretty well.  Also, EW's sax work is always worth the price of admission. 6

Altma Mira- Calypso -ish Samba foray....   Not so hot.  Hookless hooks, and a regrettable add.  9

Free Ride- Huge hit, and my personal favorite on the LP.  Definitely Hartman's  magic contribution that really in a sense launched Derringer's voice into a rock career.  The keyboard and effects work in the latter part of the tune is just icing on the cake.  1

Undercover Man-  Reverting to a really solid like Stones tune. This one is tad more bluesier, with some of Derringer's best guitar work.  4

Sice 2-
-------------

Round and Round-  A try into Eagles territory.  A swing and a miss.  8

Rock and Roll Boogie Woogie Blues- Wonder if Winter felt muzzled the first 6 cuts, as this one he lets loose. Not that Derring can compete with his brother's ax work, but I was and am impressed with Derringer's versatility on it.  Got to hand it to Winter, his hard core fans didn't go empty handed. 3

Autumn-  I know this album was an experiment into versatility, but this one almost sounds like the band America reject.  Yuk. 10

We All Had a Real Good Time- This rollicker is straight out of Humble Pie's playbook.  Bit it works damned well Good Stuff  7

Frankenstein-  This is the iconic song that EW is best known for.  This song absolutely dominated the airwaves when I was a young teen.  Organ and Synth work kind of opened the flood gates of keyboard work for some time to come.  I might have docked this one just a tad in ranking because, I have probably heard it a 1000 times.  The 1001st?  Kind of lost its allure- 2


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vRqCaQDik-I

[catfish1957]

Classic Rock Album of the Day- Black Sabbath- Master or Reality (1971)  ****

As a youngster, this band was my favorite.  The band who pretty much invented the heavy metal genre, started their career with two albums..  Self Titled, and Paranoid, that more than anything established not really what I would call schtick, but it was configured more to introduce their ultimately innovative sound, that sounded like no one else previously.  I liked the albums, but with the more macabre feel, I thought they were not actually exercising their song writing expertise, as well as they would in the 3rd and 4th albums. 

With Master of Reality and Volume 4 (previously reviewed), you have reached the golden era and apex of Sabbath greatness. All three on instrument, Iommi, Ward, and Butler after these 4 LPs had cemented their legendary status.  In fact it is pretty much a given that the music world considers Tony Iommi as the inventor of the metal heavy riff.  And as far as Geezer Butler, only Entwistle could claim  more thundering Bass Lines.

In many ways Master and Volume 4 are very similar in how they are delivered and structured.  These two also start the foray of how the band shows their admiration for drugs.  Which in my opinion is why after these two, you see a definite drop off in album quality in the band..  Don't get me wrong 1973 and later Sabbath had plenty of great tunes,but none of them approached the 3rd and 4th and far as depth, quality, and lack of filler.  And it is also very evident  too, that Osborne's voice is stronger and crisper than anything done in the future too.

In many ways the album buying public too agreed, as this is highest charting album (minus nostalgic recent adds),  No.8.   But in my POV Master and Vol IV.  are almost conceptually the same in content direction, and feel.  And they are masterpieces.

Fun Fact:  No Black Sabbath song ever broke the Top 50 in the U.S as a single.  Highest charting tune by the band was Iron Man in 1971.

Side 1-
------------

Sweet Leaf-  Band's ode to herb.  Song's opening supposed is Iommi coughing after a toke. Fantastic thundering riff that even in its repetition, comes across epicly  heavy.  This had such a heavier sound than even Paranoid, and the listeners will find the treats keep giving. Iommi and Butler give a fine clinic of how  new heavy metal will be.  Excellent.  2

After Forever-  Another metal classic.  Yep folks, no filler.  This album not only redefined the band's edge, but the add of christianity was head scratching after so many of us thought their aura was towards the evil side. 3

Embryo-  Short instrumental ditty that has an obvious medieval feel.  Strange turn in style but it augments the album wonderfully. 8

Children of the Grave- Another unique turn, with a move to the macabre.  I find Ward's percussive reverb very innovative and unique.  Song itself was a fan favorite at albums.  But kind of middle of the road in my opinion. 5

Side 2-
------------

Orchid- Another instrumental that is very nicely done by Iommi.  Yeah he was the King of Heavy Metal Ax, but songs like this one just show his absolute versatility.  Nothing outstanding, but the acoustics are almost haunting in how they fit in with the theme of the LP. 6

Lord Of This World- purist may diss Sabbath for their over use of 200 measures of repetitive riffing, but in my book this just ices down the style and persona of the Band.  No one sounded even close to this great band. 4

Solitude-  The fact the band contributed 3 soft songs, and this particular ballad has an aura of contrast, it just solidifies how versatile and talented these guys are. 7

Into The Void-  Spectacular ending and tune that hist the listener like a 2 x 4 to the head.  Instrumentally, maybe the most coherent chaos on the entire LP.  Man do they ever gel. 1


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-8rj7dH5at4

[catfish1957]

Classic Rock Album of the Day- Rush- Grace Under Pressure- (1984) *****

I am going to truly enjoy today's review, because Rush's 9th Studio LP Grace Under Pressure may be as near as the most "filler-less" album the band ever made.  There are three or four I like better in their intent and impact, but at least in this LP, there are no weak spots.  This is also at near the apex of their songwriting talents.  After Grace, Geddy definitely took the band to a much more stronger influenced electronic direction.  Those were also great albums, but this one almost shows the beautiful transition of emcompassive prog to electronic experimentation and avant- garde, because I guess Rush felt they needed to flex their versatility chops. 

This also is about the time on the lyrical front that Peart decided to be more introspective, and human emotion trending than mythical and proggy themes.  That part of the band's transition was not as pleasing to me.  But I understand the band's need to grow and show their entire repertoire during their career.  This album was definitely transitional, and it was one of their best.

I also think the fact should not be lost to the fact that this is the first album not produced and collaborated with Terry Brown.  Can you imagine the anxiety of losing that aspect of technical expertise while building the album.  But at the time, I don't think these guys realized the level of creativity, innovation, and intelligence that they brought to the record business.  This album didn't miss a beat, and at least IMO was significantly better than the band's preceding excellent album Signals.  But the difference was Signals was an outstanding album.  This one is an epic classic along with about 5 or 6 other Rush Albums.   The Rush rock purist may not have like the inclusion of some New Wave and Reggae licks, but from my POV, this is the one album after release that made me go record saying this will be one of the greatest rock bands in history.  And almost 40 years later, I stand by that statement.

Fun Fact:  Hugh Syme.  Who is Hugh Syme?  Amazingly this is the graphic designer who built ever album cover of Rush in their entire career, with the exception of their debut album.  I found out he also designed artwork too for Quiet Riot, Survivor, Outlaws, Whitesanke, Bon Jovi, Bad English, Celine Dion, Kiss, Queesryche, Tesla, Iron Maiden, supertramp, Megadeath, Uriah Help, The Kings, Styx, Dream Theatre, and 3 Doors Down

Side 1-
--------------

Distant Early Warning-  Never was pleased with Chicken Little enviro-whacko lyrical intent, but I am willing to give Peart the benefit of the  doubt, and guess he meant well.  Musically, it has nicely squeezed reggae like riffing, that has almost a Police like influence.  I do know know that Peart and Summers were good friends, and co-admireres of each others work.  3

Afterimage- Very tight riffing, a definite good effort by Lifeson.  In this number he almost seems like Peart in his able to fill measure with almost a chordal paint brush.  Even as a lower tier song on this LP, it is still kick ass.  Like I said....  no filler here. 6

Red Sector A- More Doom and Gloom apocalyptical sadness from Peart.  This particular song is a favorite on this album by many Rush fans.  Me not so much.  Nothing out the ordinary musically at least at Rush's lofty levels. 4

The Enemy Within-  Very innovative Reggae-ish effort by the band.  Another one that kind of incorporated a new wave - Police type of feel.  The Glockenspiel inclusion was an incredible add.  And nicely if not dramatically balances the heaving guitar work  5

Side 2-
-----------

The Body Electric- One of my favorites on the album.  Beautiful synced time and key changed  number that after a recent listen almost from a prehistoric POV pre-tells the AI fears when robotic technology rebels.  At the time it sure seemed Sci Fi, but 40 years later? 2

Kid Gloves-  Maybe IMO the biggest and greatest sleeper in the entire Rush catalog.  Song has some incredible and difficult again, time changes and key changes, and a drum base that is not for the faint of heart if any other band wants to cover.  This song just accentuates the level of talent and genius of this band. This song also has what I feel is Lifeson's best solo of the decade.   Why this song never became a bigger favorite to the fans was always mystery to me.  1

Red Lenses- This also a reggae- Afrikan-ish rhythm.  Lower tier, but still really a good tune.  8

Between the Wheels- More despair on another track.  Somewhat weak end, but don't get me wrong, this song would be a winner for a band not named Rush.  This entire album is a classic.  And def. in my Top 5 of the Band in their catalog.  7



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QYuw-J_o2fg

[bigheadfred]

Rush is a great band. Only got to see them once. Given the strength of each member I have them at a solid number one for a trio. Cream was a little before my time and at three. I put ZZ Top at number 2. @catfish1957

[catfish1957]

Rush is a great band. Only got to see them once. Given the strength of each member I have them at a solid number one for a trio. Cream was a little before my time and at three. I put ZZ Top at number 2. @catfish1957

All great choices for best Rock Trios.  No arguments with any of them.

[catfish1957]

Classic Rock Album of the Day- Pink Floyd- Momentary Lapse of Reason (1987) ****

Might surprise some, that in the entire illustrious PF catalog, this one is my favorite.  I know I am in the extreme minority, but there are 3 or 4 tunes on this one that are there strongest ever.  In most of their career, the guys in the band were so focucesed on the conceptual themeing , that they sometimes lost out good old fashion songwriting.  Yeah, from a cerebral perspective there are 4 albums much more entertaining, but if there is one that you just want to relax and enjoy, this one fits the bill. 

I think this complete change of direction angered the critics, and when you see the reviews, it as highly panned. Honestly, I think it was mostly butt hurt that Gilmour wrestled full control of the band and subsequent music. But it was not the first nor the last time that idiotic critics allowed peripheral issues to faux taint the work of a group. But as usual with many of us.....  F__k the critics.  This was an excellent piece from this legendary band.

What I hope wasn't lost on the fact on the lineup, is that Gilmour was able to recruit the likes of Bob Ezrin, Carmen Appice, Tony Levin,among others. Roger Who?  Some might say.   One might want that this was PF work, basically done by session men. But that is bullshit as far as I am concerned.  This album has some of the most listenable, innovative stuff that PF has ever written.  Tracks 2-5 in sucession, is about as good as it gets in listening order.  Yeah, this and Division Bell might have been considered somewhat of a swan songs for the band.  But unlike many bands who struggle and embarass themselves on the way out.  PF did it right.

Fun Fact: Every PF album from DSOTM onward charted at last No. 6 and higher.  And 4 of those 8 reached No.1. 

Track
---------

1. Signs of Life- Etheral intro.  Kind of what you would expect from the band who has made it a habit for 4 decades.  7

2. Learning to Fly-  Excellent start with great soulful but with patented Gilmour ax work.  Verbal interplay mid point again patented PF mastery. 2

3. Dogs of War-  Very different and powerful itineration from normal PF fare.  Dark and foreboding, this heavy number evolves into a blues tour de-force.  I do know Gilmour used the soulful chorus on this one more than any other LP, but it worked very nicely. 4

4. One Slip- The one to make the DSOTM and 420 crowd happy.  Very bizarre metering and rhythm intertwined with almost traditonal Rock and Roll. 3

5. On the Turning Away- The one worth the price of admission.  Absolutely beautiful masterpiece that contains one of my favorite guitar solos of all time Period.   Jaw dropping, and deservingly so. 1

6. Yet Another Movie- Some nice instrumentation work mid point.  Not bad at all, but the band shot their wad tracks 2-5  6

7. Round and Round- Short spacey instrumental that kin of harkens back to their 60's work.  Nothing really much to add here. 11

8. A New Machine (Part 1)- Sounds mostly like an epilog to the Dogs of War stylistically, but short, and adding little 9

9. Terminal Frost- Soft rocking number that almost has that DSOTM Gig in the Sky feel.  But not quite. 8

10. A New Machine (Part 2)- See Part 1 10

11. Sorrow-  Style wise, sounds like something from the Animals era.  But more heavy and subdued.  More Gilmour ax wizardry makes this a nice end to the LP. 5


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILNUaAWCW5Y

[catfish1957]

Classic Rock Album of the Day- Alice Cooper- Welcome to My Nightmare (1975) *** 1/2

The phenomenon known as Alice Cooper took the rock work like a storm 1971-1973, taking an obscure Detroit band to the stratosphere, with one part showmanship, one part a unique schtick, and one last part some really decent songwriting skills.  The first 5 Warner Brothers dominated the charts and gave AC a huge arena and airplay presence.  The origninal Shock Rocker Vincent Furnier, aka Alice Cooper basically invented this genre, giving rise to future bands like Kiss, Marilyn Manson, Gorillza, Rob Zombie, Gwar, and Slip Knot.

I was very attuned to this story even early on, and the process AC went through to transition between group and solo artist.  This is just my take, but the massive success took its toll on the band, and a few of the AC members downwardly spiralled into drug problems.  Yes AC had his problems with alcohol. but the entire band came crashing down in 1974 album Muscle of Love.  The rapid decline in quality of the entire work package was so damned obvious, that even the most glancing of fans noticed the disaster.

With that, AC made an absolutely massive abrupt decision in '74, where he fired the entire band, secured copyright rights to the name, and subsequently changed direction in many ways.  AC instead of a set band, he went the direction of hiring among the best technicans and studio musicans that were available at the time. Including Dick Wagner.  The sound?  Absolutely and step changingly different.  It was a massive gamble, but AC pulled it off.  This album is more conceptual, more pop, and musical variants way way way by far than any previous work by the band.  This is not to say the album is perfect, as there is some filler.  You may disagree, but I absolutley do not like his sappy ballads in this and subsequent albums too.  I know some of these are some of his biggest hits, but this is not the reason I bought these albums. To me Only Women Bleed is pointless except to broaden the appeal of AC to the pop market.   

I was lucky, in the fact the one particular time I did see AC, was during this particular album's and Goes To Hell tour in 1976. Back in those days, and earlier,  Alice Cooper had the greatest stage shows and production in the business.  Yes, he looked drunk as hell, but the stage show by itself was worth the price of the ticket.  Pretty much like watching a broadway prodcution.

Fun Fact: As a testament to his change of direction,  3 singles from this album charted in the U.S.

Side 1-
-----------

Welcome to My Nightmare-  Solid Title Track, that is composed and performed in the vein of semi - croon broadway production, which makes sense when you remember the stage show.  Song featured dancing monsters harassing him in menacing fashion- 4

Devil's Food-  Much harder rocking and almost harkening back to the early 1970's in style.  Excellent interplay of vocals and uniquely distorted guitar/bass.  The latter part of the song used the great Vincent Price as a voice as a macrabe museum curator, which very nicely phases into ........    2

The Black Widow- Nice Wagnar  guitar work and edgy AC vocals in a hard rocking background. Excellent 3

Some Folks- In attempt to be versaitle, this barrel house almost turn of the century mixed one misses the mark.  Not quite filler, but meh.  10

Only Women Bleed-  Can you imagine how a rocking guy like me at age 18 would respond to this?  Ugh.  11

Side 2-
---------------

Department of Youth- Upbeat rocker that has a nice feel, and hooks to be a welcome add.   5

Cold Ethyl- Nice rollicking rocker that features some more nice Wagner work.  Great AC lyrical shocker that was very present in his earlier work. 6

10 Years Ago- Lead into the mental concept, that was last visited.....   What Love it to Death?  I understand the intent and horror feel, but the concept aspect is fragmented at best.  This may have been more listenable if that was ID'ed and coherently understood while listening.  This and the next two are of a hot mess of missed opportunities.  .9

Steven- Song has an Oldfied Tubular Bells Motif.  As far important to the LP?  See 10 Years Ago. 8

The Awakening- See last two comments.  7

Escape-  Talk about a shocker.   After the previously listened 3 tracks, I thought this would be Side 1 only listenable piece.   But.....    Escape is fantastic, very hooked rocker that nicely packaged and performed in what I feel is the best song on the LP.  1


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OOUIs4wByug

[Idiot]

For some reason Metallica popped up on my YouTube feed.  I don't think I've ever listened to a single song of theirs.  I decided to click on the link and dang can they play the guitar, simply amazing.  The words to their songs are quite dark, but the heavy metal is quite addicting to listen to.  When the crowd holds up their fingers as with devil horns it's too much for me though.

[deb]

I actually liked Alice Cooper’s “Only Women Bleed”, once I got past the fact that he wasn’t writing it about menstruation.  It’s a pretty sad ballad.
I don’t look forward to the day that song gets banned,  because, you know, in this new world we live in, men can bleed too.

[catfish1957]

For some reason Metallica popped up on my YouTube feed.  I don't think I've ever listened to a single song of theirs.  I decided to click on the link and dang can they play the guitar, simply amazing.  The words to their songs are quite dark, but the heavy metal is quite addicting to listen to.  When the crowd holds up their fingers as with devil horns it's too much for me though.

Reviewed on Page 35  what I felt was the best Metallica album----->  https://www.gopbriefingroom.com/index.php/topic,458127.850.html

I fully agree with your assessment of this band.  The 2 1/2 stars may be more of function of my age, (1970's are my wheelhouse), and  personal preference.  But there is no doubt that they were among the best in their day.  And their fans were among the most fervant at the time.  Check out the Beavis and Butthead T shirts..

And you are right, I liken Metallica with NIN, in that that darkness should only be consumed in small quantities. 

[catfish1957]

I actually liked Alice Cooper’s “Only Women Bleed”, once I got past the fact that he wasn’t writing it about menstruation.  It’s a pretty sad ballad.
I don’t look forward to the day that song gets banned,  because, you know, in this new world we live in, men can bleed too.

It is an amazing "pop" ballad.  It worked very well to broaden AC's appeal.  In my case, though, when I spent $5.98 in 1975, I want and have an expectation that this is another "Billion Dollar Babies".  Though this album very good, and in just my opinion, the pop ballads could have been more rocking. Like every thing in music, taste and preference rule.

[catfish1957]

Classic Rock Album of the Day- ZZ Top- Eliminator (1983) **** 1/2

Surprised a 100+ reviews in,  I have not been asked to turn in my Texas Card by not reviewing this Texas masterpiece.  By the early 1980's ZZ Top were already in legendary status.  The encompassive infusion of bluez and gut buzzing rock was their hallmark, and man did they ever let loose with Eliminator, their 8th studio album. 

What really help get this album started, was the interesting development that the generally aloof and mysterious Top had joined the video revolution, and they did some very catchy videos with Hot Cars, Hot Women, and Hot Music.  Did it work?  Hell yeah.  This album reached that lofty level of diamond status in the US of 10M sales.  Yeah, the band used some schtick, but man was it ever backed up by some fine music. 

Eliminator, at its surface, is the Top's most pop and hook friendly fare.  Yeah, hard core fans were pretty ticked that Billy turned his back on his bread and butter bluez, but don't get me wrong, this album almost 100% has that feeling, and really it only boils down to the semantics of delivery.  I had friends who yelled "sell out", but not me....  I thought this album kicked ass.  And I could look past the cheesy videos and fuzzy guitars in deference to the tunes.

Maybe that cheezieness is why I don't give this album a near perfect rating.  A very consistent LP, but not perfect either.

Fun Fact:  Celebrate the fact these guys have been a band 52 years now.  What a career.

Side 1-
--------------

Gimme All Your Lovin'-  Awwwww yeah....   Bombastic bluez mastering blast right off the bat.  No one did better than the Top.  1

Got Me Under Pressure-  Similar theme, and feel.  And result.     4

Sharp Dressed Man-  Might be a hard pressed to find a finer 1st 3 on an album that culimanates with this masterpiece. Another that is often defined by its video.  Which is a shame, because musically wise, this is some of the more innovative riffing and hook that is seldom seen in hard rock-  ZZ Top is unique.  No one sounds like them, or dares to.  2

I Need You Tonight-  Not to totally tick off the tradionalist, Gibbons gives the crowd a more traditonal blues number.  Not bad, but the standards are high, considering the rest.  9

I Got the Six- Standard hard rock, and tad off the blues tilt.  Sounds a lot like of the stuff of the Deguello era.  8

Side 2-
-------------

Legs-  3rd installation of their MTV video Top-Car-Guy-Girl thang.  Rocking number, and another example of the consistency of this album.  3

Thug-  Standard fare and blues reprise, of and string thumping, that is pretty unique to Top's catalog.  Not bad. 7

TV Dinnners-  Love the inane theme here.  But this as a contribution, is the most bluezy and ballzy of the lot. Only ZZ Top could make hits with such simplistic stuff. 6

Dirty Dog-  This one is the real sleeper on the LP.  Maybe the hottest solo licks.  Billy lets loose on this one. 5

If I Could Only Flag Her Down-  More traditional type of blues fare.  This is the one my friends cite as an ode to classic retro Top.  You can't argue that Gibbons, Hill, and Beard almost give the fans what they want.  Me?  I was digging what then was the current stuff.  This not as much. 10

Bad Girl- Off tangent, and off topic.  Never understood why the band finished this classic with a tune so void on substance and originality.    11


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5FdpJJVrlGQ

[Sighlass]

Classic Rock Album of the Day- ZZ Top- Eliminator (1983) **** 1/2

Surprised a 100+ reviews in,  I have not been asked to turn in my Texas Card by not reviewing this Texas masterpiece.  By the early 1980's ZZ Top were already in legendary status.  The encompassive infusion of bluez and gut buzzing rock was their hallmark, and man did they ever let loose with Eliminator, their 8th studio album. 

What really help get this album started, was the interesting development that the generally aloof and mysterious Top had joined the video revolution, and they did some very catchy videos with Hot Cars, Hot Women, and Hot Music.  Did it work?  Hell yeah.  This album reached that lofty level of diamond status in the US of 10M sales.  Yeah, the band used some schtick, but man was it ever backed up by some fine music. 

Eliminator, at its surface, is the Top's most pop and hook friendly fare.  Yeah, hard core fans were pretty ticked that Billy turned his back on his bread and butter bluez, but don't get me wrong, this album almost 100% has that feeling, and really it only boils down to the semantics of delivery.  I had friends who yelled "sell out", but not me....  I thought this album kicked ass.  And I could look past the cheesy videos and fuzzy guitars in deference to the tunes.

Maybe that cheezieness is why I don't give this album a near perfect rating.  A very consistent LP, but not perfect either.

Fun Fact:  Celebrate the fact these guys have been a band 52 years now.  What a career.

Side 1-
--------------

Gimme All Your Lovin'-  Awwwww yeah....   Bombastic bluez mastering blast right off the bat.  No one did better than the Top.  1

Got Me Under Pressure-  Similar theme, and feel.  And result.     4

Sharp Dressed Man-  Might be a hard pressed to find a finer 1st 3 on an album that culimanates with this masterpiece. Another that is often defined by its video.  Which is a shame, because musically wise, this is some of the more innovative riffing and hook that is seldom seen in hard rock-  ZZ Top is unique.  No one sounds like them, or dares to.  2

I Need You Tonight-  Not to totally tick off the tradionalist, Gibbons gives the crowd a more traditonal blues number.  Not bad, but the standards are high, considering the rest.  9

I Got the Six- Standard hard rock, and tad off the blues tilt.  Sounds a lot like of the stuff of the Deguello era.  8

Side 2-
-------------

Legs-  3rd installation of their MTV video Top-Car-Guy-Girl thang.  Rocking number, and another example of the consistency of this album.  3

Thug-  Standard fare and blues reprise, of and string thumping, that is pretty unique to Top's catalog.  Not bad. 7

TV Dinnners-  Love the inane theme here.  But this as a contribution, is the most bluezy and ballzy of the lot. Only ZZ Top could make hits with such simplistic stuff. 6

Dirty Dog-  This one is the real sleeper on the LP.  Maybe the hottest solo licks.  Billy lets loose on this one. 5

If I Could Only Flag Her Down-  More traditional type of blues fare.  This is the one my friends cite as an ode to classic retro Top.  You can't argue that Gibbons, Hill, and Beard almost give the fans what they want.  Me?  I was digging what then was the current stuff.  This not as much. 10

Bad Girl- Off tangent, and off topic.  Never understood why the band finished this classic with a tune so void on substance and originality.    11

"Legs" was probable the most catchy song (to me), but I have long since tired of it. "Gimme (all your Lovin)" <---Best Song IMHO. "Sharp Dressed Man" is still used as meme material (word wise) when any of my kids get dressed up. For some reason (though it is not my usual style), "I got the Six" works for me in small doses.

All in all, it was a fun album (I still have the 12" vinyl), but I drifted away from the style over the years. Now I just hunt obscure mostly forgotten New Wave, to keep it fresh.

I don't post much here Catfish, but I do enjoy reading.

[berdie]

Great review of ZZ. I like them but usually  put them in a "shuffle" with other music.

I went to one of their concerts and there were a ton of men wearing long, grey beards. I had a really hard time not pulling on them to see whose were real (probably not many) and whose were fake.  I did fight the temptation.

[Maj. Bill Martin]

One day, I have to try to catch up.  I just couldn't, so I kind of stopped.

[catfish1957]

Great review of ZZ. I like them but usually  put them in a "shuffle" with other music.

I went to one of their concerts and there were a ton of men wearing long, grey beards. I had a really hard time not pulling on them to see whose were real (probably not many) and whose were fake.  I did fight the temptation.

lol...   Haw Haw Haw............

I saw ZZ Top in 1977, and in the early 1980's, and I can honestly say there are very few bands out there who love playing live more than thse guys.  And they do have a lot of energy for guys in their mid 70's.

[catfish1957]

One day, I have to try to catch up.  I just couldn't, so I kind of stopped.

Looking forward when you have some time.   You added some really good reviews.

It's been kind of the same for me.  We went out west to help with grandkids for 2 months, plus other summer duties are making it tough to add.

[catfish1957]

Classic Rock Album of the Day- Honeymoon Suite- The Big Prize- (1985) *** 1/2

Today's gem has kind of gotten lost in the obscurity of time.  This is a band of no-names, both in band, and production.  But for a few years these guys made some fine AOR stuff, that was solid musically for the genre, and had some of the best rock hooks of the mid 1980's.  This was a time when Canada was adding a nice niche of listenable stuff outside a lot of the English Wuss crap that was permeating the radio at the time.   Bands like Tragically Hip, April Wine, and Loverboy were nice adds to Rock and Roll History, though most of us would be hard presssed to remember any of them in a random manner.

Yes,, this is a band of unknowns, but collectively, they operated well a sum of the parts.  Yes, by the mid 80's the industry may have been suffering the Flock of Seagulls Syndrome, and decent music pretty rare at the time, but no doubt a few gems like this got through.  Not saying this album is filler free, but a better part than half is damned good.  In fact, I'd put the 3 best on this LP up gainst pretty much anything else that year.  And honestly if you lived during this time period, I'll bet you'll remember some of these tunes, but not the names.

Fun Fact:  I mentioned that this was an album/band of unknowns, but listen to All Along You Knew.  You might recognize the guy playing the Flute.....   Ian Anderson of Jethro Tull.

Side 1-
------------

Bad Attitude-  Rocking intro- Yep no glitz, no wizardry, just gut punching rock and roll, and no UK wuss band pretentiousness that we were suffering from at the time.  1985 was not a lost cause. 2

Feel It Again-  Wonderful blend alternation of melodic hook and rocking raucous fun.  1st 2 are a great start to a really good album. 3

Lost and Found- Synth focused standard fare, not filler, but not one of the better efforts  7

What Does It Take-  Like pretty much everyone in the era, some obligatory ballads had to be added.  Harkens some to UK Wuss stuff.  No thanks. 9

One By One- Not saying this is a plagerized Bon Jovi tune, but swiping from one of my least favorite rockers, is not a vehicle of endearment.  Yeah its Filler.  10

Side 2-
---------

Wounded- Another one that has kind of a Bon Jovi feel to it.  With a little better result  5

Words In the Wind-  Best on the LP. Just the perfect mix of melodic layering chaos that gives this tune a unique zeal of mix and feel of hook and improv.  Best guitar solos on the LP, if you are really into that.  1

All Along You Knew- Perfect marriage of new and old at the time.   Really dig the Ian Anderson Flute infusion.  Kind of like Bon Jovi meets Jethro Tull 4

Once The Feeling- Another strong effort in what is showing to be a nicely consisitent LP. 6

Take My Hand- Sadly the LP reverts to English Wussery at the end.  Forgettable Ballad, and too bad they concluded in this manner.  8


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0zFN6DwSjjE

[catfish1957]

Classic Rock Album of the Day- Led Zeppelin - Houses of the Holy- (1973) ****

Now, introducing the end of one of the best runs of great albums in Rock History.  Don't get me wrong H/H is a fabulous LP, but no doubt the bar was high.  This is the band's first effort that wasn't near or at perfection.  By 1973, LZ was the biggest band in the world, they knew it, and in some ways took that hype and believed they could take an experimental path that make the critics, fans, and record companies happy.  Of course it sold greatly, but there was an undercurrent, indluding me that thought why would you piss on what got you there. 

Stylistically H/H is kind of hodgepodged mix of III and IV, but with none of the songwriting and playing prowess that made people wear out their LP's and 8-Tracks. I am guessing Page and Plant were thinking that they needed to flex their versatility, but that success wouldn't come until the next album - Physical Graffitti.  I also think, and I am speculatively thinking that the band was also strongly focusing on their Live Film and Album, which was about at the same time.  Maybe that lack of focus impacted songwriting.

I know I might be in the minority of critics, as when you review the compliation, the consensus loved this.  But with all music, it is all subjective. It is not near audaciously adventerous as anything else they made, and in at least my opinion is the second worst studio album they made behind "Presence". (BTW....I don't count Coda as a valid album.)  But..... again.....the 7th best of 8 albums by this legendary group is still better than anything made by 95% of the rest of Rock.

Fun Fact:  Zeppelin in their careers sold 300M units. 

Side 1-
-------------

The Song Remains the Same-  Later the Title track and Title of their epic Movie.  Good standard Zep riffs, and overall band effort, though again, and I may be in the minority, does not do the band justice, in the grand scheme of the band's standing.  Yeah, it's a rocking ballad, that has neat shifts in meter and style.  Many loved it.  Me not so much-  5

The Rain Song- I didn't pay $5.99 at the time to hear sappy balladry from my favorite band at the time.   I sure LZ wanted to broaden their appeal, but with strings, and other diluting slush to this number.......   Me? Nope, and by the this second song, I was almost in WTF mode. Slightly more rocking side of the end, was not redemptive. 6

Over the Hills and Far Away-  Whew....  Finally a really good one.  Nicely down 12 string acousitc start blends nicely into a well hooked LZ tune that I expected to enjoy. Love the off synced melodic lines.  Though subdued, this has some bad ass Bonham drumming.  This structurally would be a very hard tune to drum to.  2

The Crunge-  ???  Funky endeavor, that sucked. Yeah, the bass lines are interesting, but Rick James, they aren't  The Bridge?  They should have jumped off. 8

Side 2-
--------

Dancin' Days- Decent foray into another experimental style with somewhat of a better result.  Wonder if many others noticed that Page did more repetitive riffing on this album than the first 4 combined.  Song is saved by some nice slide guitar which works nicely with the intent of the song. 4

Dyer Maker- Ugh.  This was the hit, and man was it bad.  The worst 3 songs on this album, are probably the worst 3 of any album they made. And not even close.  7

No Quarter-  Loved this one.  Dark, foreboding. Where in most cases, I didn't like the experimentation, this one hit the mark.   This one has the closest feel to what you will see and hear in Physical Graffitti.  Live favorite, as it worked so fine and so many levels on an improv basis.  I don't think Page ever played this song the same ever live- 3

The Ocean- I am probably definitely in the minority, but this is my favorite on H/H. Air Drummers rejoice, Bonham kills it.  To me this has some the most innovative melodic interplay on the album, and just a perfect mix of hook, and pizazz. 1



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=97FpOlzPqFM

[catfish1957]

Classic Rock Album of the Day- Blue Cheer- Self Titled (1969) ***

Wowzer...   This was probably about my 5th-8th  album I ever bought.  And tonights  is probably the first time I have given it an entire listen in easily 50 years.  And honestly I wasn't disappointed.  Blue Cheer were quite innovators in their day.  They incorporated many styles that would be heard in many future bands in the following 20 years.  But the thing about this Band, is that they really did not seem hep on hit making.  In fact their highest and only one of two charting tunes was the oft covered Cochran Tune, "Summer Time Blues".

If you really want to pin a direction for this very good LP, its very complex mix of psychedelia, metal, funk, and blues.  It is my opinion their most consistent, work if you consider Side 1 its own unique work.  And still, listening to this one and few other early works, you have to wonder why there is no substance to this  band's legacy.  They were innovative, influential, and competent in songwritng and instruments.  So what the hell happened?  Mostly a mystery, but if there is one striking detraction to this group, is not only lack of a superstar grinder, but  there were 30 different people who have been members of the Band Blue Cheer.  Also, there are snips here are there that make the band sound a whole lot alike Tbe Doors, Jefferson Airplane, Animals, and a few others.  And honesty, before doing this review, if I was pressed into citing one member of the band, I wouldnt have been able to.  And I am one who likes to think he is a student of rock history.

Still, this is a fine example of exactly what then late 1960's SF Haight Asbury look and sound,   and well worth a listen.  And a helpful hint, all of their best stuff is on Side 1.  I do know there are jewels out there in the sea of obscurity, and this is a perfect example.

Fun Fact:  Even though in my opinion, this is their best work, it didn't even crack the Top 200 Album chart.

Side 1-
-----------

Fool- Though it won't be the first or last time the band went into Stones territory on this LP,  Fool sounds about as good as anything from Richards and Jagger in the late 1960's hay day. Very good catchy blues number, that though I wouldn't call hooked has some great well played ax/harmonica bluezy groove.  1

Youre Gonna Need Someone- Another fine blues tinged rocker, that has fantastic bass line. Love the ending and quackery that nowadays would be a real head scratcher, but quacking ducks was just what the era's Stoners were digging 2

Hello LA, Goodbye Birmingham-  Very quaint period peace with that signature hammond organ that we loved during the era.  Song has that often used theme of country boy gets a guitar, and goes on adventure on his way out to make it in the music industry.  All the Charm of Ito the Great White Open, with that 1960's flair. 4

Saturday Freedom- Maybe the most standard 4/4 rocker on the LP.  They did a very and unique blnd of bluez and psychedelia that worked well. 3

Ain't That the Way (Love's Supposed to Be)-  Band bit a bit more than they could chew, and this one has level of clutter that hurts the continuity of the tune.  I love well crafted chaos. But this one sounds more like guitar v. organ....   And  neither wins. 9

Side 2-
-----------

Rock and Roll Queens-  Just realized that Grand Funk swiped some riffs for Footstompin' Music on this one.  Not so hot, and there are much better choices on this album. 8

Better When We Try- This Animals/Doors style attempt misses the mark. 7

Natural Man-  Stones cloning attempt Part 2.  Falls flat on its ass. 10

Lovin' You is Easy-  More Side 2, that just didn't meet the same standards as 1. 6

The Same Old Story-  Blues finale.  Slow roller, that infused even some Janis Joplin kind of vocalization.  Simple one, but kind of a pleasant change of pace from the rest of S-2.  5






http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2G6Gs1quDpg

[catfish1957]

Classic Rock Album of the Day- The Beatles- Abbey Road (1969)-  *****

Reviewing works by the greatest rock band in history makes me very nervous.  In context, even when I got my first album of any kind in 1965 (Meet The Beatles), there was always this level of inferred mesmerization,  as these were some of the greatest song writers of not only rock, but of any music genre of any kind.  This album, and about half a dozen of their catalog is massively filler free.  These albums ere not only perfect, they transcend into what seems to a different plane of creativity. 

What I find so endearing about this particular album is its sheer randomness.  There isn't a conceptual bone in the body of this work,and when you are  considered the greatest band on earth?  Who is to tell you who, what, where, or when to record.   What is amazing is this legendary band only made 13 traditional studio albums, and man did they not waste any vinyl in getting their message across.

The Beatles were not just a band,  They set the styles, and were cultural icons in every form and fashion.  It could be argued that they invented counterculture .  So many bands on both sides of the pond made it a point to sound like, imitate, or emulate the Beatles.  Their impact on music can not be underestimated.

And from a historical perspective, I remember so many pundits claiming that the band was at "jump the shark"moment with Yellow Submarine.  Personally I loved YS, and all of their work,  but critics were shocked that a band that in previous order Sgt. Peppers, Magical Mystery Tour, and White Album had devolved to a cartoon soundtrack.   In retrospect it was genius, and only in legacy building worked perfectly into their discography.

Abbey Road itself split in the 2 sides has side one that seems more entwined in the  tradition and style of the White Album.  Well let me reiterate some parts of the White Album, but not in its entirety.  Side 2 is mostly a hodgepodge of musical Vignettes in a Pollock art like splash of musical fortuitous darts at a dart board.  Jaw Dropping excellence to say the least.

Fun Fact:  The Beatles are the highest selling musical act in history with sales of 600 Million Units.  That is not a typo.....  600 Million.  And that is just albums.  If you include all the 45's, I'll bet they are pushing a Billion.

Special Props to the YT author who put this together.  CGI adds  a special touch to the Fab 4's efforts, and enjoyment to this listening experience.  I'd recommend  watching it before the YT police yank it down.

Side 1-
-------------

Come Together- This cut and the next one "Something" were probably the most recognized hits on the LP.  Come Together is an incredible whimsical and nonsensical (just first of several) number.  Song contains maybe McCartney's most iconic bass lines.  Of course you can tell this is a mostly Lennon inspired effort.  His fingerprints are all over it in style and delivery. 6

Something- Maybe the greatest rock ballad ever composed.  Beautiful, emcompassive, and powerful.  I always thought this was one of the first big hits that featured a Mellotron, though from the credits, it cited as Hammond Organ.  Sure sounds like a Mello to me.   Definitely George Harrison's greatest example of his work. 5

Maxwell's Silver Hammer- McCartney clowning around in again...  whimsical and nonsensical.  My least favorite add on Side 1 though. 16

Oh Darling-  The Beatles made very few of what I would call blues styled songs.  But the song works nicely, and really showcases just how  talented and versatile they are. 12

Octopus' Garden-  See Maxwell's, but compliments of Ringo.   Yellow Sub Hangover?   Maybe the most hooked effort on the album.13

I Want You- Like I mentioned earlier, by this point in their careers, their styles had diverged enough, that you can almost predict who had the main line of songwriting at the time.  By the late 1960's all the Lennon- McCartney credited songs were really individual efforts.  Versus early on, it was though not impossible, more difficult to discern.to  Lennon's style was so much serious and melancholy, the differences are striking. The end of the song has some of the most thundering almost hard rocked edged stuff the Beatles ever did. 9

Side 2-
------------

Here Comes The Sun-  Thus begins the Medley side of Abbey Road, and it begin magnificently. Upbeat and bright....  Yes, Here Comes the Sun.  Harrison's contributions on scale and on this particular song exceed here on this album than any other from my taste.  Yes, Something was the epic classic, but this one is one of my favorites by the band.  And it also gives glimpses of why Harrison was the most successful of the four in their solo careers. 1

Because- Sgt. Peppers psychedelia feel on this one.  Almost perfect harmony, and very interesting harpsichord melody, just adds to one of so many unique Beatles tunes. 11

You Never Give Me Your Money- Another almost Day in the Life kind of phasic number that shifts and turns in direction more than once in this excellent effort. 7

Sun King-  With Crickets blaring  the band downshifts into a soft ballad of a short minute and a half. 10

Mean Mr. Mustard-  By this time, the band is about to shift the direction into nonsensical overdrive.  Works wonderfully in the scheme of it. 15

Polythene Pam-  Love this throw back that almost seems it could have been added in 1964.  It rocks. 2

She Came in Through the Bathroom Window- Another that kind of has that style from the Sgt. Peppers/ Magical Mystery Tour era.  All these Vignettes are done in such rapid fashion you might be inclined to think this is musical incoherence. But that is not the case.  There is a reason why the legacy of this album focuses on it being on almost all Top 10 lists in Rock History.  It's genius. 3

Golden Slumbers- Fairly Short McCartney ballad, that mostly serves as a transitory tune .14

Carry That Weight- Another Heavy tinged and orchestrated dubbed that adds nicely to the equation  8

The End-  And what an end.  The band allows all hell to break loose.  It has it all...   Searing dual guitar solos, drum solos, and a swan song goodbye that sums it all up.  To me...  this is the end of the band as a collaborative melded force.  Let it Be, In my estimation was a forced event where the 4 members were going their own way, and it just didn't have the charm or the effect. 4

Her Majesty-  Very short acoustical ditty that basically dissed QE2.  Somehow they still acquired Knighthood.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tIGW_TEwCXw

[Sighlass]

Honeymoon Suite- The Big Prize...

Not really my go to style, but being an 80s group (that I had not heard of) I gave them an ear.... you did a good job describing the music... still not my style, but I could listen to it in the background without complaint.

[catfish1957]

Honeymoon Suite- The Big Prize...

Not really my go to style, but being an 80s group (that I had not heard of) I gave them an ear.... you did a good job describing the music... still not my style, but I could listen to it in the background without complaint.

Good points @Sighlass.  I get a kick out of good bands that really don't have virtuoso on stage, but as a sum of their parts and teamwork can come up with a good album.  Not every band can have a "Jimmy Page".

BTW, what did you think of the CGI/animation of Abbey Road?  I enjoyed it.

[Sighlass]

Good points @Sighlass.  I get a kick out of good bands that really don't have virtuoso on stage, but as a sum of their parts and teamwork can come up with a good album.  Not every band can have a "Jimmy Page".

BTW, what did you think of the CGI/animation of Abbey Road?  I enjoyed it.

To be honest I had skipped the Beatles video, never was a big fan for various reason, though I have heard [and somewhat liked] countless instrumental versions of their songs a million times. To be honest, I had a lot of Beatles records (given to me via a  huge collection (probable 400 7" records 33/45/78) when I was a kid from kinfolks that had their kids move out and leave them).... I played everything of course, until my cheap kid's record player turned the records into dust (literally the needle was that bad, it ate the records). I couldn't tell you which Beatles records I had, but I wished I had not killed them (I didn't know needles needed changing at the time).

For you I gave the video a quick go-through and the CGI was interesting... I don't understand CGI, did they take a original video and animate it? Just seems if they made it out of thin air, they sure do a good job of making the movement seem natural. I recognized about half the songs. Always hated "Come together" with a passion. "Something" was a good song to be honest. "She's so Heavy" is pretty cool but drags to long. "Here Comes the Sun" is a good song. "Carry that Weight" chorus was always catchy, but that was about all I liked.

I think what finished The Beatles off in my world was Castro doing a statue in Lennon's memory (because his political views). I just wanted nothing to do with the group, kind of like when you eat something that sours your stomach, and you don't want it again. If I was honest, a lot of my 80s groups probable are just as bad, but because I didn't take time to study their politics, I hypocritically give them a pass.

[berdie]

imho, the Beatles are one of the hardest to review. You did a great job.

Since I more or less checked out after Rubber Soul and Revolver, I enjoyed it. And I knew most of the excellent songs.

[catfish1957]

imho, the Beatles are one of the hardest to review. You did a great job.

Since I more or less checked out after Rubber Soul and Revolver, I enjoyed it. And I knew most of the excellent songs.

Very kind to say.  Works by The Beatles have been so parsed, interpreted, and discussed in so detail, sometimes you wonder how useful it is to share.

[Weird Tolkienish Figure]

EW&F day!!!


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gs069dndIYk

[berdie]

 

[goatprairie]

To be honest I had skipped the Beatles video, never was a big fan for various reason, though I have heard [and somewhat liked] countless instrumental versions of their songs a million times. To be honest, I had a lot of Beatles records (given to me via a  huge collection (probable 400 7" records 33/45/78) when I was a kid from kinfolks that had their kids move out and leave them).... I played everything of course, until my cheap kid's record player turned the records into dust (literally the needle was that bad, it ate the records). I couldn't tell you which Beatles records I had, but I wished I had not killed them (I didn't know needles needed changing at the time).

For you I gave the video a quick go-through and the CGI was interesting... I don't understand CGI, did they take a original video and animate it? Just seems if they made it out of thin air, they sure do a good job of making the movement seem natural. I recognized about half the songs. Always hated "Come together" with a passion. "Something" was a good song to be honest. "She's so Heavy" is pretty cool but drags to long. "Here Comes the Sun" is a good song. "Carry that Weight" chorus was always catchy, but that was about all I liked.

I think what finished The Beatles off in my world was Castro doing a statue in Lennon's memory (because his political views). I just wanted nothing to do with the group, kind of like when you eat something that sours your stomach, and you don't want it again. If I was honest, a lot of my 80s groups probable are just as bad, but because I didn't take time to study their politics, I hypocritically give them a pass.

"Always hated "Come together" with a passion"

Always hated that one too. Still like the Beatles a lot. I doubt Lennon was as seriously leftist as Castro thought he was. Lennon certainly didn't live the average Soviet citizen.
I play a lot of Beatles music on my guitar. Can't help it if some truly awful people liked the Beatles. I heard Saddam Hussein loved ABBA. What are you going to do? 

[catfish1957]

Classic Rock Album of the Day- Robin Trower - Bridge of Sighs- (1974) *** 1/2

I have seen quite a few great blues/rock guitarist in my life, including , SRV, Johnny Winter,  and Billy Gibbons, and several  others, but one in particular I want to recognize that has someone been lost in the sands of times is the great Robin Trower.  There was a period of time in the early to mid 1970's that record companies and their execs would hype the "New Hendrix".  Trower fresh from Procol Harum fame, was the lastest installment in that process.

Robin Trower is definitely in that class, but when was the last time while listening to classic rock stations, do you hear any of his classic works especially from his second album (this one) or the subsequent one "For Earth Below". For me to pick one of these two was tough.  Almost a coin toss.  The only reason I chose Bridge, was because the best 3 from this one, is just a tad better than the latter.  I also gave this one a nod, in that the solos seem more intense and technically tight.  There were some crazy innovative ways that Trower made his Strat sing like no one had done since the man himself (Hendrix).

One thing that is a great sign of the power of a band, is its ability to create a wall of sound that mimics 5 vs 3.  Even though this band is no way similar to ZZ Top in that respect, one very interesting similarity is its empcompassive feel that no note or moment is wasted.   In fact, if you allow yourself to immerse yourself into the listen, you will get that same virtuoso vibe as you would during an intense Hendrix or SRV blues iteneration.   In any case, I am thankful that he left Procol Harum, and unleashed some fantastic rock/blues fused masterpieces.

Fun Fact- Band had zero platinum albums, which I kind of found odd, considering how big he was back in the day

Side 1-
-------------

Day of the Eagle- Marvelous blend, and marriage of blues and hard rock.  Trower did a great job of picking of bassist James Dewar (from somewhat obscure band- Stone the Crows) for vocals.  This is maybe the most rocking and less blues-ish number until the decressendos into a fading sun like decompress.  Excellent. 2

Bridge of Sighs- Title Track intentionally channels RT's inner Hendrix.  Song allows some nice peripheral percussion and a has that majestic feel in what feels like a slow mo, blowing, and I mean slow rolling blues classic.  I had almost forgotten how good this album was.  4

In this Place-  Song has a foundation that has tinges of the modern Soundgarden sound. Good one, but lower tier in the preference on the album.  Listen to Black Hole Sun, and feel the simiarity.  Or maybe its my imagination.  7

The Fool and Me- Another smoking blues tune, that RT absolutely has that Stratocaster singing.  I've always stuck with my Gibsons for playing around (SG/LP), but songs like this make me want go out and binge on another ax.  This is vintage Robin Trower. 5

Side 2-
------------

Too Rolling Stoned- Side 2 opens like a sledge hammer. I consider this easily one of the top 5 rock/blues tunes of the 1970's. You will swear you are hearing a 3 headed monster channeling Hendrix/SRV/RT, if you take in the final few minutes.  This is transcendental blues at its best.  And why this one doesn't get airplay on modern Classic Rock radio is a mystery.  If you only have time to listen to one song on the album, this is the one.  1

About to Begin-  This song has the misfortune of having to follow RT's greatest classic.  And though it might appeal to the softer bluezy, and almost torchlighting jazzy feel, it just does check the boxes for me.  8

Lady Love- Strange add, as this more of a standard rock song of the era, versus what is in RT's roundhouse.  Not bad, but out of place. 6

Little Bit of Sympathy-  RT's takes a bit of an off tangent.  He goes full bore with hard rock, with a crazy mix in that kind of Electric Ladyland territory.  From a technique standpoint, this might be one of the most difficult work he did.  I know I would have cramps in my hand if I could play this. The tonal drops along the frets are crazy good. 3








https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q2afD0B0I-g

[berdie]

Not being a huge fan of Procol Harem, I was unaware of him. Thanks. He is a great guit picker. But there are a lot of great guit players. What makes them stand out, to me, is their voice.

Disclaimer: I'm a SRV and Satriano groupie. Their voices were/are distinctive.

[catfish1957]

Disclaimer: I'm a SRV and Satriano groupie. Their voices were/are distinctive.

In the early '80's, I accidentally caught some of a SRV's show on 6th Street in Austin, back when it really was a great place for music.  I was blown away with the what I felt was almost acrobatic, Hendrix like blues.  In fact, I almost thought he was a Hendrix cover artist, as he played a couple of Hendrix' tunes from the era.  Impressive though.

Then a few years later, Texas Flood came out, and I remember telling a friend who got the album......   I saw him, with about 50 other people in the bar.   The acoustics were't so great, so I really didn't get a real feel on how crisp he was.

Satrini?  Ultra-masterful guitar tactician, but one weakness is in songwritng skills, and again, that is just my opinion, because he sure does have a good fan base. 

[catfish1957]

Classic Rock Album of the Day- UFO- Obession (1978) ***

Today's selection is somewhat of change of pace.  I would pretty readily guess that almost born after 1965, has not heard this band.  But these hardworking journeymen over 40+ years almost produced 2 dozen studio albums.  The kind of view I give them, is maybe a moniker of one of the greatest back up bands in history.  This band opened for almost everyone big in the 1970's and early 1980's.  And this was a band as live, would give you your money's worth.

Very solid rocking band, that had good consistent albums, as produced.  But, they just didn't get that one hot or series of hits that propelled other bands.  Technically, they are very sound too.  Maybe a tad too formulaic.  And there is a certain degree of filler, in all their stuff, but I would be amiss, that no rock audiophile should ignore this solid band.  of course, you can kind of discern of the similarity of their sound to other similar groups of the era.   You can hear, Free, Zep, Priest, among several others. 

To pick one from their catalog, it was a tossup between this one,  and the prior year's Light's Out (1977).  Chose this one, as the I kind of like the better cuts, and the riffs seem more concentrically centered and listenable.  There are few stinkers, but I think and hope that you see that this was a band good enough not be be forgotten. No weak links in the lineup, songwriting is acceptable, but one has to realize that back in the 1970's there was a lot of competititon in the day for $ for albums and concerts.  These guys just didn't make the final leap to stardom.  But thanks for the music though.

Fun Fact: Another band with not only no platinum studio LP's, but gold either.  Amazing that they had that level of unrequited  love, and still had the longevity of 22 studio albums (1970-2017).

Side 1-
------------

Only You Can Rock Me-  Best UFO tune, by far.   Made it to No. 50, and a what a shame it did no better.  Well constructed chaotic standard, and about as good AOR sound as you are going to find the era.  Many other bands made lesser tunes than this that charted much higher.  Which is just more proof that there are so many intangibles in the music business dictating success. 1

Pack it Up (And Go). Very hard rocking that checks all the boxes, but doesn't too well trying to build on repeti-riff.  A couple nice searing solos that sadly lean up against a Spinal Tap like bass/drum line.  4

Arbory Hill- Off tuned, flute(?), Recorder (?) that starts Tullish ditty , that morphs quickly into a Judas Priest stuff.  Nope. 10

Ain't No Baby-  Made the Priest reference, and there isn't an ingenious bit or innovative note in this.  8

Lookin' Out For No. 1-  Obligatory ballad that works pretty weill outside their center expertise. Solos have more soul on this one, instead of fretting gymnatstics.  5

Side 2-
--------------

Hot n' Ready- Solid Opening on Side 2.  i enjoy how they mixed this one, with more equity for all parts, instead the standard blaring guitar.   Though, outside opener, the tune ends with some pretty strong ax work.  2

Cherry- I understood the need for band versatility to be displayed, but often that effort is not good.  In this song it is a mix of good and bad, with some really neat hooking and soloing to at least save it. 6

You Don't Feel Me- Very nice of some blues influsion that set this one apart from the rest of the album.  Still a little too formulaic to meet my taste.  Sadly UFO made at least a dozen or two other songs, that are very similar.  Saw a lot of this in their early stuff. 7

Looking Out For No. 1 (Reprise)- No idea why the bad would semi-rehash a minute spot like this.  Seemed pretty pointless 9

One More For the Rodeo-  Hard rocker, and an upper tier cut from the LP.  One thing, you are noticing though, that there is such a consistent meter and feel to this music, you might kind of get an idea, that their lack of songwring breadth, just might be why this band never made it to its level of it's peers. 3

Born To Lose- Sappy ballad that recycles the melodic lines of Only You Can Rock Me.  11



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Omh4JmpYQTg

[catfish1957]

Classic Rock Album of the Day- Rare Earth- One World (1971) ***

Today's additon is an interesting LP of one of those successful rock bands that put a valid R&B stamp on their craft- Rare Earth. These guys still exist for the Casino Circut, and haven't made anything interesting in decades, but one would have to be amiss, not to at least give them some props for their contributions during the early 1970's.

And this is  almost orchestriaic conglomerate  of a band of no-names, as I counted close to 30 differeng lineups in their history. And kind of an anomoly in that this was  a white band that broke the top 20 in both the Rock and R & B charts.  That talent of versatility, though not a schtick or a novelty, did give them some nice airplay during the day.  They were like War, but had that more of mainstream feel to them. 

There is a streak of late '60's and early '70's anti American-ism and anti-war rhetoric in their music,  which to me is points off of the equation.  I understood the need to throw a number or two to be trendy with the time, but is some ways these guys over did it. I will let you be the judge of whether these guys have withstood the test of time.  Some good stuff, but filler too.

Fun Fact: This album wasn't converted to an available CD format until 2015.  Hmmmm.  that''s one vote on legacy I guess.

Side 1-

What'd I Say-  This Ray Charles number has been covered at least dozens of times, by many from different genres.  Rare Earth does a great job holding true to the R & B vibe, while infusing a really good rock fill.  What  a pleasant surprise- 2

If I die-  First installment on LP of Vietnam protest that falls flat.  Band focuses more on message than song- 8

The Seed- Gotz that Curtis Mayfield thing going.  Nothing really innovative besides that, and honestly, they can do better than mimicking Terry Kath's licks.  Good band, but you aren't Chicago. 6

I Just Want to Celebrate-  The band's most famous hit, and it is a fine one at that.  perfect blend of Funk, R & B, and hot rocking magic.  I'd bet 90% of the buying public bought this LP for it.  I know I did. 1

Side 2-
-------------

Someone To Love-  Maybe the more standard rocking numbers on the album- Strong one, with a decent hook line, and a jamming  that compliments the number well- 3

Any Man Can Be a Fool-  Pointless blend of Chicago and Strawberry Alarm Clark. Fillersville. 7

The Road- Decent one that is stangley unique to RE's sound.  Nice use of sync beats and with a funk edge. 5

Under God's Light- Bright Airy, pleasant one that kind of captured some of the religious stuff like some of what the Doobie Bro.'s did.  End does an especailly nice job of capturing the jam. I liked it.  4


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tQK6BZcaMAo

[catfish1957]

Classic Rock Album of the Day- Yes- 90125 (1983) *****

There was a few moments in the early 1980's that there were a great many of us who felt that AOR rock was near dead.  Punk and new wave had infliltrated the rock air waves in massive amounts, and a lot of the old classics were seeming to fade into the night.  But...   with the inevitable ebb and flow of fads in rock music, one axiom lives on no matter what.  Great music, and great musicianship trumps all.  By 1980, it is pretty much universally accepted that Yes was in such a slump with Tomato and Drama.  No these weren't bad albums.  Yes didn't ever make a bad album, but I think we all know that this drop off ended up in at least their short term demise.  The great core of this band went on to other supergroups.  Some with success, some with less.

But something incredible happened in 1982.  The band regrouped and and hired a masterful songwriter named Trevor Babin.  I know I have sang his praises previously, but what he added and brought to this band is nothing less than breathtaking.  With 90125, a Yes album was produced unlike any other.  It included drastic stylistic changes, but not at the expense of masterful musicanship.  Pound per pound few if any bands are more talented than this one.  Babin went on with this level of excellence for serveral more.  As a guitaritst, he wasn't Steve Howe, but who else is, within the magic and legacy of this band.  But OTOH, the drop wasn't as bad as many thought.

And when it hit the airwaves, my circle of friends went crazy.  I had no less than 4 make it a point to make sure I had gotten a listen to this new and revitalized supergroup.  And what really I loved is that the base of the old band, like Squire and Anderson not only embraced the new sound, they rose to the occasipn giving some of their best perfromances in near a decade.  This is a hollywood story, where journeyman session guy finally gets recognized and becomes a superstar.

What is also special about this album is its level of consistence of excellence.  There are almost no weak moments.  Every cut has something to offer and add to the equation.

Fun Fact: Album name corresponds to it's Atlantic Record Catelog Number.  There were rumours of other sinister reasons back in the day, but all urban legend.

Side 1-
-------------

Owner of a Lonely Heart- Unique and powerful opening.  The use of funk in a proggish, rocking manner was an absolute genius stroke and move by Babin.  This song sounded unlike any other the band had created, and for a few die hards, they weren't pleased in what at that time seemed like a possible commerical sell out.  But in my opinion, it was the opposite.  This song and its ultra-interesting mix of style, and delivery just let the world know that this band was back-  2

Hold On-  To quell the purist concerns, the second entry provided a more tradtional, though rocking angle to the band's portfolio.  Sync rthymed allternating  with a bluesy tinge, was another spot on endeavor.  Off centered chorus at the line is a songwriting feat. 5

It Can Happen-  Originally, I wasn't too pleased with the sitar'ed opening and melodic center.  But in hindsight, the technological slant on this particular number was ingenious,  Solid Solid tune. 4

Changes- First example of Babin influences, with his African Xylophone electronic like semi-bass line.  Maybe a tad weaker on the whole of the LP, but still and excellent example of this band's great work.  This was not an easy compostion to perform to say the least. 8

Side 2-
-----------

Sinema- Interesting hard rocking instrumental that in a lot of ways plays into the next song,  Kind in a way like Foreplay leads into Long Time for Boston.  When listening to this albums these songs beyond in natural order. Don't mess with it (Hint to classic rock radio stations) 6

Leave It- Some of the best harmonies and unique songwriting in Yes' career. Fantastic blend of styles including rock, prog, funk, and even acapella.  A masterpiece, and a song with it's level of simplistic, but so complex, and powerful. 1

Our Song-  Even as the weakest tune on the LP, this is a technoloigical masterpiece.  No weakeness on this album, and just another reason this gets a well deserved 5 star rating. 9

City of Love-  FX laden good number that has that Big Generator feel to it.  Very complex song on so many levels.  More excellent harmonies, that are maybe the biggest halmarks of this one.  7

Hearts-  Album closes with a highly Anderson influenced song.  This great one rollicks along from the ethereal to heavy rocking, to a downrigtht Anderson like Spirtual voyage. (Early '70's like) 4

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CdJt_0yv49E